What is the connection between 1970s factory workers and what is happening to today’s knowledge workers, a term from the Japanese art world and a Lincolnshire violin workshop and the Newark school of Musical Instrument Crafts?

As technology reshapes every industry, are traditional hand skills still relevant? In this post, we explore the enduring value of skilled making—from sensitive restoration to meaningful, tactile work.

Often overlooked, the scroll is a violin’s most expressive feature. In this post, we explore what the scroll reveals about craftsmanship, regional style and the maker’s hand—and why it matters to luthiers and players alike.

Restoring a violin is about more than just fixing damage—it’s about honouring the maker, respecting the instrument’s history and reviving its voice. In this post, we share our luthier’s approach to thoughtful, careful restoration.

Not all violins are created equal. In this post, we explore what makes a good violin—beyond brand and price—from a luthier’s point of view. Whether you’re buying, renting or restoring, it’s all about tone, craftsmanship and a setup that supports the player.

Could a passion for music become a lifelong craft? This post explores why more young musicians should be encouraged to consider instrument making and the barriers that currently obscure this rewarding career path.

Thinking about a career in luthiery? Violin making is a rewarding career for creative minds of all ages. Discover what the craft involves, who it’s suited to, and why becoming a luthier means more than just working with wood—it’s a meaningful and fulfilling way to preserve tradition through skilled hands and a love of music.

As the UK’s last violin making degree comes to an end, where will the next generation of instrument makers learn their craft? This post explores alternative training routes and what’s at stake for music education and heritage skills.

The closure of the UK’s only violin making degree marks more than the loss of a course—it highlights a growing disconnect between music and the heritage crafts that sustain it. This post explores why skilled makers are essential to music education and how their decline could affect generations of young musicians.

What makes British craftsmanship so vital to our cultural identity? This post explores the rich heritage of handmade traditions in the UK, the challenges facing heritage crafts today, and how supporting skilled makers helps preserve a living legacy.

The recent suspension of musical instrument making courses at the Newark School of Violin Making has raised serious concerns across the craft community. With our own luthier among its alumni, we reflect on what this decision means for the future of luthiery in the UK and the wider challenges facing traditional craft education today.

Looking for a new bow? Learn how to test several side by side, what to listen for, and how to find the right match between you, your bow and your instrument. This guide covers tone, balance, responsiveness and the all-important golden triangle of player, bow and instrument.

Thinking of taking up a string instrument? This guide compares the violin and viola to help you choose the right one for your musical journey – from sound and size to opportunities and learning curves.

Discover the fascinating journey of the violin, from its humble beginnings in Renaissance Italy to its status as a timeless instrument cherished by musicians worldwide. Explore its evolution, legendary makers like Stradivari, and the violin’s lasting influence across classical and modern music.

Violin decoration is an art form in itself, transforming instruments into visual masterpieces. From Stradivari’s ornate purfling to Maggini’s double purfling and Hardanger fiddles’ intricate inlays, makers have long used embellishments to showcase craftsmanship and honour tradition. In this article, we explore the rich history of violin decoration, highlighting famous examples and contemporary makers who continue this tradition today.

Tuning your violin is an essential skill that helps you produce a beautiful sound. In this guide, we’ll walk you through simple steps to tune your violin with confidence, whether you’re using fine tuners, pegs, or a tuning app like gStrings. With practice, you’ll develop an ear for pitch and keep your instrument in perfect harmony.

Starting your violin journey can be exciting and rewarding, but choosing the right equipment and support is crucial. In this guide, Laurentius walks you through the essential steps to get started, from selecting the right violin and accessories to finding a good teacher and making practice enjoyable. Whether you’re considering renting or buying, Bridge Street Violins offers expertly set-up instruments that will help you play with confidence. Learn how to set yourself up for success and begin making beautiful music today!

Choosing between a new and vintage violin is an exciting decision, but which one is right for you? Whether you’re drawn to the fresh start of a new instrument or the rich history of a vintage one, we break down the benefits and considerations of each to help you find your perfect match.

Introducing a child to music is one of the best ways to shape their future. Learning an instrument builds confidence, discipline, and teamwork while enhancing cognitive skills and mental well-being. Discover why music is a lifelong gift and how the right instrument can make all the difference.

Choosing the right violin bow is a crucial part of refining your sound and technique. Just as an alchemist carefully balances elements, a violinist must find the perfect synergy between bow, instrument, and playing style. This guide explores how different bows influence tone, responsiveness, and expression, as well as the materials and craftsmanship that shape their performance.